Which action influences the abiotic components of an organism's environment?

• A. A predator hunting its prey
• B. A bee pollinating a flower
• C. A plant competing with another plant for sunlight
• D. A volcanic eruption releasing ash into the atmosphere

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between abiotic and biotic components: Abiotic components are non-living elements of the environment, such as temperature, water, sunlight, and minerals. Biotic components are living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.
2. Analyze each option to determine whether it affects abiotic components: For example, a predator hunting its prey involves living organisms and is therefore a biotic interaction.
3. Evaluate the option involving a bee pollinating a flower: This is also a biotic interaction because it involves living organisms (the bee and the flower).
4. Consider the option about plants competing for sunlight: While sunlight is an abiotic factor, the competition itself is a biotic interaction because it involves living organisms (the plants).
5. Examine the volcanic eruption releasing ash into the atmosphere: This action directly influences abiotic components, such as air quality, temperature, and sunlight availability, making it the correct answer.